PhiladelphiaPersonal Injury Attorneys

Spring is here and with the sunshine and warmer temperatures comes an increase in pedestrian and bicycle accidents. Accidents involving pedestrians and bicyclists have been on the rise nationwide over the last several years. There may be some reasons for this including an increased use in handheld devices for texting, calling and playing music and games.

Unfortunately, when an accident occurs between a vehicle and a pedestrian the pedestrian is often seriously or fatally injured. If you were injured in an accident it is advisable to talk to an injury lawyer in Philadelphia as soon as possible.

Injuries in Pedestrian and Bicycle Accidents

Pedestrians and bicycle riders are left almost completely unprotected in an accident with a motor vehicle. Even at low speeds, victims can suffer severe injuries. Sadly, there is an increased incidence of fatalities when the vehicle is traveling at a rate of speed that is 40 MPH or more. Certainly a helmet can be of some help but even those who were wearing helmets might be seriously hurt when hit by a car.

Injuries include such things as broken bones, lacerations, contusions, back and neck injuries, internal organ injuries and head trauma. Of these injuries, head trauma is among the most significant. A major head injury can cause bleeding and swelling in the brain. Immediate treatment is necessary and some patients could be left with permanent brain damage. The costs associated with medical treatment and ongoing care can be astronomical. A personal injury lawyer in Philadelphia will help you get the compensation you deserve.

Prevention of Pedestrian Accidents

Drivers need to be aware of pedestrians and bicycle riders as they ride or walk near traffic. Keep in mind that pedestrians often try to cross the road in an unmarked area rather than a crosswalk. If the area is not well lit you should drive more slowly at night. Most importantly, drivers need to obey the rules of the road and should not drive while they are distracted. Distracted driving accounts for many of the accidents on our roadways.

Distracted driving includes anything that takes your eyes or attention away from the road. This can include many different things such as eating while driving and talking to passengers. The most common form of distracted driving is texting while driving. Texting and driving causes the driver to take their vision and attention away from the road and an accident can occur. An injury lawyer in Philadelphia will assist you after an accident.

What to Do After an Accident

If you or a loved one suffered an injury in a pedestrian or bicycle accident you need to know your rights. It is best to talk to an injury lawyer in Philadelphia before you speak with the insurance company. Do not agree to a settlement until your attorney reviews the case because you need to be provided with the money you need for your medical bills and other damages. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation to discuss the details of your accident.